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Translate files Methane
/ˈmɛθeɪn/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A colorless, odorless gas that is the simplest alkane, consisting of one carbon atom bonded to four hydrogen atoms (CH4), commonly produced by the decomposition of organic matter.
Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that contributes significantly to climate change.
A major component of natural gas, used as a fuel source and in the production of various chemicals.
The methane extracted from local gas fields provides energy for thousands of homes.
A byproduct of the digestive process in ruminants, released into the atmosphere during burping.
Cattle are known to produce large amounts of methane during digestion.
A flammable gas used in heating and cooking as a primary energy source in many households.
We use methane for cooking and heating in our kitchen appliances.
Methane can be formed anaerobically in landfills as waste decomposes over time.
The landfill emitted methane, which was captured and used to generate electricity.
Etymology
From methyl + -ane (a suffix used in organic chemistry).
Common Phrases and Expressions
methane hydrate
A solid form of water that contains trapped methane, typically found in ocean floor sediments.
methane emissions
The release of methane into the atmosphere, often from livestock, landfills, and natural gas production.
methane conversion
The process of changing methane into other forms of energy or products.
Related Words
alkane
A hydrocarbon with single bonds only, including methane.
greenhouse gas
Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, including methane.
fossil fuel
Natural fuels formed from the remains of living organisms, which can contain methane.
Slang Meanings
Fart gas
Dude, that burrito really gave me the methane!
Natural gas
We just switched our stove to run on methane for better efficiency.